Credit & DTI
What credit score do I need for FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans?
Context
Credit score minimums differ across the major loan types, which can be confusing when comparing options.
The short answer
Minimums vary by loan and lender: conventional typically wants about 620+, FHA can go as low as 580 (sometimes 500 with a larger down payment), VA and USDA have no fixed federal minimum but lenders usually look for roughly 580–640.
Things to keep in mind
A higher score generally means better pricing, and actual minimums are set by the lender, not DMF.
Next step
DMF shops lenders to match your score to the right program — contact us to see where you fit.
Have a question about your own situation?
DMF serves Minnesota homebuyers and homeowners by shopping your purchase or refinance file across multiple wholesale lenders — not a single bank's product menu.
Davis Monroe Financial, LLC is a mortgage broker, not a lender. We do not make credit decisions or fund loans. Rate locks are issued by the lender; we submit and manage lock requests on your behalf. All loans are subject to credit approval. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice.